One-Pan Balsamic Chicken with Spring Tomatoes

Easy, fresh, and weeknight-ready

This One-Pan Balsamic Chicken with Spring Tomatoes is the kind of dinner that feels elegant but comes together effortlessly. Juicy chicken cutlets simmer in a glossy balsamic glaze with sweet cherry tomatoes and fragrant rosemary, all in one pan. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want big flavor without a sink full of dishes. The tangy-sweet sauce pairs beautifully with the tender chicken, making it a great option for a light dinner, casual entertaining, or meal prep. If you’re looking for an easy one-pan chicken dinner that tastes fresh and seasonal, this recipe delivers every time.

Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

Ingredients List

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced lengthwise into thin cutlets
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 1 ½ tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
• ¼ cup water or chicken broth

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions

1. Season the chicken cutlets evenly with ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper.
2. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until melted and bubbling.
3. Add chicken in a single layer. Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover loosely.
4. In the same skillet, add sliced red onion. Cook 2 minutes until softened and fragrant.
5. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds, just until aromatic.
6. Pour in balsamic vinegar and sprinkle in brown sugar or honey. Stir and simmer 1 minute until slightly reduced.
7. Add cherry tomatoes, rosemary, remaining salt and pepper, and water or broth. Simmer 5–6 minutes until tomatoes soften and sauce turns glossy
8. Return chicken to the pan, spoon sauce over the top, and simmer 2–3 minutes to reheat.
9. Remove from heat and serve immediately

Pro Tips

• Make it ahead: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Extra sauce: Double the balsamic mixture if serving over rice or pasta.
• Herb swap: Thyme or basil work well if rosemary isn’t available.
• Serving ideas: Pair with mashed potatoes, quinoa, or crusty bread.

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